The Rhodesian Ridgeback, originating from Southern Africa, is a robust and athletic dog breed, famous for its role in lion hunting. With a gentle and calm personality, this dog has adapted to modern life while retaining its courageous temperament. Its distinctive feature is the ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction on its back, a unique trait that makes it immediately recognizable.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Southern Africa
- Type: Hunting dog, guard dog
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 33-40 kg
- Female: 29-35 kg
- Height:
- Male: 64-69 cm
- Female: 61-65 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise needs: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Adapts but requires regular outings and space to exercise)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Playful: ☆☆☆☆☆
- Vocalizations: ☆☆☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ☆☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can get along with children, but requires proper socialization and supervision)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (May be a bit reserved with other animals, especially small ones)
- Strangers: ☆☆☆☆☆ (Generally reserved towards strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Can live in an apartment if long walks and play areas are available)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate maintenance is required, regular brushing is enough to keep the coat in good condition)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Relatively affordable, but regular veterinary care is important for health)
- Care frequency:
- Grooming: One to two brushings per week, more often during shedding periods.
- Hygiene: Check and clean ears, teeth, and nails regularly.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, supplies, food): 1500-1600 €
🏡 Important note
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a calm and affectionate dog, but it remains independent and can be reserved with strangers. It needs an active owner who will provide regular outings to meet its need for physical exercise. Whether in an apartment or a house with a garden, it can adapt, but it requires an environment where it can let off steam. Its robust health and low maintenance needs make it an excellent choice for those looking for an elegant and athletic dog with a protective and calm character.
